Potential Development of Caregiver in Health Promotion Among Diabetic Patients by Using Participatory Action Research

Abstract

This study aimed to educate caregivers to have the knowledge, attitude, and behaviors in promoting health among diabetic patients. Participation action research was implemented with 50 samples of caregivers who look after diabetic patients and live in Tha-nuam Samsaen and Rachaplatikaram communities. Research instruments composed a demographic data sheet, a questionair for measuring knowledge, attitude, and health promoting behavior of caregiver, and a focus group discussion. Data were analyzed using description statistic:; using content analysis. having a good knowledge level ( Χ =17.56, SD=2.29); having a good attitude level ( Χ =2.57, SD=0.18), and having a moderate health

promoting behavior ( Χ =2.86, SD=0.58)

            Content analysis stated that activities and selected problem for developing health promoting behaviors among diabetic patient’s caregivers are needed. That such activities include to organize exhibition for health promoting among diabetic patients; to demonstrate diabetic food sample, to exchange experience and knowledge in caring foot, foot exercise, foot wound care; to demonstrate hand massage for relaxation; and to visit diabetic patient’s home. Potentially, such a participation program could be used to promote health among diabetic patients and increase self- awareness and self-care among caregivers with high level of satisfaction in activity participation.